Second-generation BMW X6 Sports Activity Coupe to build on success of previous model that achieved more than 260,000 sales worldwide

BMW Group Australia introduces the new BMW X6

In 2008, BMW created an entirely new type of car, launching the world’s first Sports Activity Coupe, the BMW X6.

Now, the new second-generation BMW X6 has arrived in Australia featuring sportier styling, a substantial increase in equipment, more powerful and fuel-efficient engines, and even greater dynamic handling, hallmarks of BMW’s Ultimate Driving Machines.

Boasting an enhanced, sharper muscular exterior, and more refined, spacious interior, all models benefit from a range of upgraded engines.

Courtesy of the latest in BMW’s EfficientDynamics technologies, these new power plants offer improvements in performance, and substantial reductions in fuel consumption of up to 22 per cent compared with the previous generation model.

The all-new BMW X6 features a significant boost in standard features designed for convenience, comfort and safety, including Adaptive AED headlights and ConnectedDrive, providing the driver with a wide range of information and service features while on the road.

In addition to this, the new all-wheel drive BMW X6 offers a range of adaptive suspension packages to further improve the car’s already high levels of sporty agility, ride comfort and dynamic driving characteristics.

With its extensive increase in standard equipment, more powerful and fuel-efficient engines and even more potent design presence, BMW Group Australia managing director Marc Werner said the new BMW X6 would build upon the worldwide success of its predecessor.

“The original BMW X6 launched in 2008 was the world’s first Sports Activity Coupe and became a huge success with over 260,000 sales worldwide.

“With the launch of the second generation model offering substantial improvements in performance, efficiency and luxurious value, as well as an even more imposing road presence, the new BMW X6 will set a whole new standard in exclusive driving pleasure.”

The new BMW X6 maintains the dynamic proportions of its predecessor combining the versatility of BMW’s X models with the sporting elegance of the brand’s Coupes with only minimal changes to height and width and a slight increase in length of 32mm to 4909mm.

The bold front end is dominated by a wider kidney grille which now extends to the new standard Adaptive LED headlights, providing a powerful and dynamic presence.

Large 20-inch light-alloy wheels, fitted with low profile 275/40 front and 315/35 rear tyres, and a swept back coupe-style roof line maintain the car’s distinctive aesthetic with the strong flat rear apron framed by the L-shaped LED tail lights, highlighting the BMW X6’s wide track and road-hugging stance.

The striking exterior design of the new BMW X6 is transformed inside into one of contemporary elegance and luxury. It combinies standard Dakota leather upholstery, a broad leather-covered instrument panel, sporty three-spoke multi-function steering wheel and highlight trim in aluminium for the diesel models and fine-wood Polar Grain for the BMW X6 xDrive50i.

Ensuring superb visiblity of all important functions, the instrument cluster and centre stack climate controls feature black panel technology while a new larger 10.25-inch freestanding display screen in the centre of the instrument panel provides all vehicle, infotainment, navigation and communication information managed by the iDrive Controller on the centre console.

All new BMW X6 models feature comfortable and supportive front electric sports seats – with heating and electric lumbar support for BMW X6 xDrive50i and BMW X6 M50d models – while in the rear, the new BMW X6 features improved versatility and space with a 40/20/40-split, three-position seat.

Luggage capacity has been increased to between 580 litres and 1525 litres – with seats folded flat - an increase of 75 litres over the previous BMW X6, and easy access is assured with a standard electrically-operated tailgate.

With the launch of the new generation BMW X6 comes a substantial increase in standard equipment for convenience, comfort and safety.

The BMW X6 xDrive30d benefits from the addition of Adaptive LED headlights and ConnectedDrive features including Driving Assistant - a camera-based system providing Lane Departure Warning, Collision Warning and Pedestrian Warning with light city braking function – and Intelligent Emergency Call that uses the built-in SIM card to automatically call and transfer data to the ConnectedDrive Call Centre in the event of an accident.

These features are in addition to cruise control with braking function; front and rear Park Distance Control; keyless start/stop; dual-zone climate control; Rain Sensor automatic windscreen wipers and lights; convenience telephony with extended Bluetooth functions including Voice Control, audio streaming and pairing of multiple devices; HiFi audio system with USB and Aux inputs; and Navigation Professional System with a 20GB hard drive for media file storage.

The new BMW X6 builds on the renowned performance credentials of its predecessor with a powertrain lineup offering even greater power and torque, and substantial reductions in fuel consumption, drawing on BMW’s groundbreaking suite of EfficientDynamics technologies.

Among the EfficientDynamics innovations featured in the new BMW X6 include Auto Start/Stop and ECO PRO mode for the Driving Experience Control, an upgraded eight-speed Sport Automatic transmission with steering column paddle shifts and Launch Control.

Leading the way on the efficiency front is the 190kW/560Nm 3.0-litre, six-cylinder, TwinPower Turbo diesel engine in the BMW X6 xDrive30d that, with a combined fuel consumption of just 6.0l/100km and CO2 emissions of 159g/km, offers a 19 per cent improvement over its predecessor.

At the same time, an extra 10kW of power and 20Nm of torque powers the new BMW X6 from 0-100kmh in 6.7 seconds, a near one second improvement over the previous generation model.

With an extra 30kW and 50Nm, the 330kW/650Nm 4.4-litre, TwinPower Turbo V8 petrol engine in the BMW X6 xDrive50i is not only the most powerful in the range with a 0-100km time of just 4.8 seconds (0.6 seconds less than previously) but also benefits from a massive 22 per cent reduction in fuel consumption down from 12.5l/100km in its predecessor to only 9.7l/100km.

Although the outputs of the triple-turbo, six-cylinder, 3.0-litre diesel engine in the BMW X6 M50d remain unchanged at 280kW and 740Nm, the car benefits from BMW EfficientDynamics technologies with fuel consumption reduced by 14 percent to 6.6l/100km.

Putting all this power to the ground, the new BMW X6 maintains its xDrive permanent all-wheel drive system, offering fully variable torque split between the front and rear axles while building upon the dynamic handling characteristics of the car with a new range of four adaptive suspension packages.

In addition to its standard sports-tuned adaptive M Suspension with specific settings for the Dynamic Damper Control and rear air suspension, the BMW X6 M50d also features the Dynamic adaptive suspension package. This comprises Dynamic Performance Control, which varies the torque-split between the rear wheels and Dynamic Drive active roll stabilisation.

Providing the optimum balance between ride comfort and agility, the Professional adaptive suspension package, standard in the BMW X6 xDrive50i, combines the features of the Dynamic adaptive suspension package with a Comfort adaptive suspension package, featuring unique settings for the Dynamic Damper Control and rear air suspension.

All four adaptive suspension packages are optionally available for the BMW X6 xDrive30d model.

As well as the adaptive suspensions, all BMW X6 models feature the four-mode – COMFORT, SPORT, SPORT+ and ECO PRO - Driving Experience Control that makes adjustments to the throttle, gear and electric power steering responses for an active and engaging driving experience.

The new BMW X6 is covered under BMW warranty for three years and unlimited kilometres, as with all new vehicles, and features a condition based servicing (CBS) system which is built into all BMWs. Under the CBS system, sensors and advanced algorithms monitor and calculate the conditions in which the vehicle is used including mileage, time elapsed since the last service, fuel consumption and how the vehicle is driven. The information captured is used to determine the vehicle’s maintenance requirements, indentifying that either an annual vehicle inspection or an oil service is due.

In addition, BMW service and selected maintenance costs can now be covered by a single, one-off advance payment with BMW Service Inclusive (BSI). BSI offers two packages: BMW Service Inclusive Basic provides scheduled servicing cover, while BMW Service Inclusive Plus combines scheduled servicing and selected maintenance items. Based on individual lifestyle needs, a year range and kilometre option is selected, starting from five years/80,000. The BSI plan provides a long-term solution enabling cover to be extended and transferred to future vehicle owners before expiry.

* Manufacturer’s Recommended List Price is shown and includes GST and Luxury Car Tax (LCT) – if applicable, but excludes dealer charges, stamp duty, statutory charges and on-road charges, which are additional and vary between dealers and States/Territories. Customers are advised to contact their nearest MINI dealer for all pricing inquiries.

New BMW X6 in detail

Exterior – powerfully refined for extrovert athleticism

The new BMW X6 marries the robust presence of an X Series model with the sport elegance of a Coupe, and with its sharper contours, flowing lines and more sculpted styling, provides a muscular and athletic appearance.

A wider kidney grille, X-shaped contour lines through the bumper and large Air Curtains integrated into the outer air intakes of the front apron affirm the BMW X6’s renewed vigour, assertive character and sporting essence.

For the BMW X6 xDrive50i and BMW X6 xDrive30d models which include the Exterior Design Pure Extravagance package as standard, a Cerium Grey kidney frame, grille struts, air intakes and mirror caps, and stainless steel underbody protection provide even more visual power and purpose.

This same exterior package adds further design distinction with features including side aluminium running boards, door sill finishers with BMW designation (illuminated in the front), pillar covers and mirror triangle in high-gloss black, chrome dual tail pipes and rear stainless steel underbody protection.

With an overal length of 4909mm, width of 1989mm and height of 1702mm, the new BMW X6 is marginally wider and taller, and 32mm longer than the previous generation model.

However, despite the slight increase in size and significant boost in standard equipment, model for model, the new BMW X6 is almost the same weight as its predecessor thanks to the use of lightweight thermoplastics in the side panels, an aluminium bonnet and magnesium in the instrument panel support.

Inside, the new BMW X6 offers a refined and elegant atmosphere with the multi-layered surfaces of the instrument panel, door trims and sports seats finished in fine Dakota leather.

The relaxing ambience of the interior is further enhanced with the standard ambient lights package that incorporates blue, white and orange LEDs combined in a choice of nine pre-defined designs.

With its standard black panel technology for the multifunctional instrument display and centre console, a large freestanding 10.25-inch display screen and leather multi-function sport steering wheel with paddle shifters for manual gear shifts, the driver-oriented cockpit offers a very ergonomic design with all controls falling easily to hand.

This practical ease of use has been further extended further back as well, with a new 40/20/40-split rear seat back offering improved versatility and a larger luggage capacity which ranges from 580 litres to 1525 litres with the rear seat back folded fully flat.

Additional storage is provided by the large door bins with 1.5-litre bottle holders (1.0-litre in the rear), lidded centre console compartments, front and rear cupholders and a glove box while lashing points and hooks in the luggage compartment ensure everything can be safely secured.

Access to the large rear luggage space is easy with the standard electrically-operated tailgate that can be opened and closed from the driver’s seat at the touch of a button or via the remote control key fob.

The BMW X6 xDrive50i and BMW X6 M50d models also offer a hands-free function for opening and closing the tailgate that is part of the standard keyless Comfort Access System. The hands-free function uses sensors located under the rear bumper to detect foot movements and activate the tailgate operation.

The electrically-adjustable sports seats – with memory function for the driver - offer superb comfort and support with a new leather-trimmed kneepad fitted to both sides of the centre console providing further lateral support in corners when taking advantage of the agile driving dynamics of the BMW X6.

The premium Dakota leather upholstery is offered in a choice of four standard colours – Black, Terra, Canberra Beige and Coral Red – and to further personalise the stylish interior of the BMW X6, BMW also offers an Interior Design Pure Extravagance package.

This package is available as a no-cost option for the BMW X6 xDrive50i and BMW X6 M50d models and a cost option for the BMW X6 xDrive30d, and features exclusive Nappa leather for the seats, instrument panel and door trims in either Ivory White/Black or Cognac/Black colour combinations with contrast stitching.

As the sports flagship of the range, the BMW X6 M50d is distinguished by a number of bespoke interior features including a BMW M leather multi-function steering wheel, Anthracite BMW Individual roofliner, M driver’s footrest and a gear selector bearing the M logo.

The new BMW X6 features a choice of three improved TwinPower Turbo petrol and diesel engines delivering greater performance and significantly lower fuel consumption than their predecessors.

These performance and efficiency improvements arrive through the new BMW X6’s lightweight, aerodynamically-optimised body, an upgraded eight-speed Sport Automatic transmission and the addition of new BMW EfficientDynamics technologies.

These include Auto Start/Stop and ECO PRO mode for the Driving Experience Control, along with Brake Energy Regeneration, Servotronic electric power steering and low rolling-resistance tyres.

The addition of the ECO PRO mode in particular, has had a marked impact on the efficiency,with fuel consumption reductions of up 22 per cent compared to the previous generation model.

The intelligent ECO PRO mode tailors the engine management system and throttle and gearshift responses to maximise fuel efficiency while also minimising the energy consumption of electrical functions such as the climate control, and seat and mirror heating.

ECO PRO mode also includes a coasting function that decouples the engine from the powertrain during accelerator lift-off between speeds of 50kmh and 160kmh and, in conjunction with the Navigation Professional System, enables selection of fuel-efficient driving routes.

With fuel consumption at just 6.0/100km and CO2 emissions of 159g/km on the EU test cycle, the 3.0-litre, six-cylinder, single turbodiesel engine in the BMW X6 xDrive30d is the most efficient in the range.

Such outstanding fuel efficiency is achieved without compromise to performance as the engine’s variable geometry turbocharger and common rail direct injection generate maximum power of 190kW at 4000rpm and peak torque of 560Nm between 1500rpm and 3000rpm.

Representing a 10kW and 20Nm increase in power and torque, the improvements help propel the BMW X6 from 0-100kmh in 6.7 seconds, accelerating nearly one second quicker than the previous model.

The greatest improvements in power and efficiency are found in the BMW X6 xDrive50i’s latest version of the TwinPower Turbo 4.4-litre V8 twin-turbo petrol engine that gains an additional 30kW and 50Nm compared with its predecessor.

Now producing a maximum power of 330kW between 5500rpm and 6000rpm and 650Nm of torque across a broad range from 2000rpm to 4500rpm, the BMW X6 xDrive50i now covers 0-100kmh 0.6 seconds faster than before with a time of just 4.8 seconds.

At the same time, the BMW X6 xDrive50i benefits from a huge 22 per cent improvement in fuel consumption with an EU combined test figure of 9.7l/100km and CO2 emissions of 227g/km.

With its M Performance Twinpower Turbo technology combining three turbochargers working together in a precise multi-stage process, the 3.0-litre, six-cylinder diesel engine in the BMW X6 M50d delivers the optimal balance between performance and efficiency with maximum outputs of 280kW between 4000rpm and 4400rpm and a massive peak torque of 740Nm from 2000rpm to 3000rpm.

This enables the BMW X6 M50d to cover 0-100kmh in 5.2 seconds while still maintaining a highly efficient fuel consumption of 6.6l/100km and CO2 emissions of 174g/km.

The powerful styling of the new BMW X6 is reflected in its on-road dynamics which provide superb agility and sublime ride comfort, delivering trademark BMW driving pleasure.

Building on the qualities of the double-wishbone, double-joint front and integral rear suspension of its predecessor, the new generation BMW X6 benefits from further detail refinements to the chassis and the addition of four adaptive suspension packages.

These four adaptive suspension packages – Comfort, M Suspension, Dynamic and Professional – feature different combinations of four electronically-controlled functions including Dynamic Damper Control, rear self-levelling air suspension, Dynamic Drive and Dynamic Performance Control, that are tuned specifically for each package.

The different functions grant adaptive control of various components to enhance ride comfort or deliver more sporty handling with Dynamic Drive offering active roll stabilisation and Dynamic Performance Control providing variable power distribution between the rear wheels.

The Comfort and M Suspension packages offer specific settings for the Dynamic Damper Control and rear air suspension. The adaptive Dynamic suspension package provides more sporty handling courtesy of the Dynamic Drive and Dynamic Performance Control functions.

The Professional suspension package features all four adaptive functions combining both the Comfort and Dynamic packages for the optimal balance of ride comfort and agile handling.

Each of the four suspension packages are individually available as options for the BMW X6 xDrive30d with the adaptive M Suspension and Dynamic packages fitted standard on the BMW X6 M50d and the Professional adaptive suspension package standard on the BMW X6 xDrive50i.

Further control of the driving characteristics of the new BMW X6 is provided by the standard Driving Experience Control which offers COMFORT, SPORT, SPORT+ and ECO PRO modes to make adjustments to the throttle, gear and steering responses for an active and engaging driving experience.

Precise and direct steering response is provided by the Servotronic electric power steering, with a more sporty M Servotronic system standard on the BMW X6 M50d, while effective stopping power is enabled via large ventilated disc brakes all round.

The new BMW X6 is also fitted with a full suite of electronic systems for the ultimate in safety and security on the road including Dynamic Traction Control, Hill Descent Control, and Dynamic Stability Control incorporating Anti-lock Braking System, Cornering Brake Control, Brake Assist, Dynamic Brake Control, Dry Braking function, Fade Compensation and Start-off Assistant.

ConnectedDrive – advanced safety and convenience

In line with all the latest generation BMW models, the new BMW X6 includes a range of BMW ConnectedDrive features to improve safety and convenience.

On the safety front, all new BMW X6 models incorporate Head-up Display, front and rear Park Distance Control, Surround View camera with rear, top and side views for 360-degree visibility, cruise control with braking function and Driving Assistant as standard.

The Driving Assistant uses a camera-based system to provide a Lane Departure Warning and Collision and Pedestrian Warnings with a light city braking function that is applied if the driver fails to take note of the audible and visual warning.

All BMW X6 models also feature the innovative Intelligent Emergency Call and BMW TeleServices that make use of the standard built-in SIM card.

In addition to these ConnectedDrive features, the BMW X6 xDrive50i and BMW X6 M50d models also gain Driving Assistant Plus - combining the elements of the Driving Assistant with full braking function as well as the radar-based Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function – and Parking Assistant.